At the heart of Spain's eastern coast, stretching some 500 km. along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, lies a destination boasting over 300 sunny days a year. It's a destination bursting with colour, flavour and heritage. One that combines rich history, mouthwatering gastronomy, modern architecture and ideal locations for cultural and sporting events. Formed of three provinces with diverse landscapes (Alicante, Valencia and Castellón), it's also a destination that provides the perfect setting for all types of holidays. Welcome to the Region of Valencia: THE tourist hotspot of the year.

Whether you're looking to spend your next break relaxing on the beach or sampling the delicious paella in the old city, read on to discover some of the many attractions and activities available for you to enjoy.

For the Nature Lovers

The Region of Valencia is home to the largest concentration of blue flag beaches in Europe, with up to 130 in total. Well-known spots such as Benidorm, and even lesser known ones like Denia, Altea, Calpe, Torrevieja or Peñíscola, offer no shortage of sandy shores and clear waters that can be enjoyed with an almost perfect climate year-round. A variety of accessible and nudist beaches can also be found.

Further inland, mountains soaring 2,000 metres high and 21 protected parks provide a true paradise for nature lovers. Additionally, the Region of Valencia plays host to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, numerous internationally important wetland areas and a wealth of endemic flora and fauna.

For the Active Adventurers

Adrenaline junkies and active adventurers, rejoice! The Region of Valencia is huge on thrilling activities for all fitness levels.

With 450 km. of gentle coastline, the region is a haven for watersports. Excellent access to beaches, marinas and ports provide perfect conditions for surfers, sailors and snorkelers alike. For a one-of-a-kind learning experience, try out the Las Antípodas sailing school in the calm inlet of the Peñon de Ifach in Calpe.

Those who like to keep their feet moving will be pleased to know that the region presents some of the best walking and cycling opportunities in Europe. Over 5,000 kilometres of certified trails wind their way from well-known spots to the most remote vistas. You can spend an afternoon pedalling around Turia park, hiking through the mountainous terrain of Penyagolosa in Castellón or strolling along the Vía Augusta, a road dating back to Roman times.

Take your pick from short range (SR) and local trails (LT) to long range (LR) trails that allow you to carry out hikes of over a day. No matter your choice, these trails, together with high-quality accommodation, allow you to discover the region's natural beauty at your own pace.

For the Foodies

When it comes to the top foodie destinations in Spain, the Region of Valencia stands out at the top of the list. Here, dining is devoted to the palate as traditional flavours complement culinary innovation. A leading exponent of Mediterranean cuisine, the region's kitchens are characterised by delicious and healthy recipes based on fresh fish, seafood, fruit and vegetables. Much of these products are sourced locally, such as artichokes from Benicarló, medlars from Callosa and oranges from Valencia. Yet, the region's cuisine offers as many dishes as it has towns, from the southernmost tip of Costa Blanca to Castellón through Benidorm and beyond.

For starters, you can't go wrong with the region's claim to fame: paella. In fact, Valencia is the birthplace of the tasty rice dish. For the main course, why not savour the delicious stews typical of the inland areas or the Mediterranean Sea-inspired flavours of the coast?  

On the region's wine tourism route, you can sample exquisite local white, red and sweet wines with Denomination of Origin quality labels from Alicante, Utiel-Requena and Valencia.

For the Culture Vultures

The Region of Valencia is built upon the artistic and cultural legacy of ancient civilisations. From rural hilltop fortresses to the Roman theatre of the Sagunto settlement, from the olive and almond groves of the backcountry to the fusion of ancient and modern architecture in the main cities, the region proudly showcases its cultural assets.

Visit the Neolithic sanctuary of Pla de Petracos in Costa Blanca. Discover the Iberian-Roman city of Lucentum in Alicante. Walk in the footsteps of past generations at Illeta dels Banyets in Campello. Or, unearth the castles in Vinalopó, one of the most representative parts of the province's cultural routes.

Other popular cultural sites include Novelda and Alcoy, two towns included in the European route of modernist architecture, and the Fortress of Guadalest, a stronghold erected by the Moors in the 12th century.

For the Revellers

Celebrations, fireworks, live music and fun are all par for the course for the Region of Valencia. A large number of festivals are organised throughout the year for both locals and visitors alike, turning the towns and cities into vibrant social happenings.

The most popular are those that have been declared to be of national and international tourist interest as a result of their historical tradition, high participation levels and the far-reaching media coverage they receive. The Low Festival in Benidorm, the FIB or Rototom Sunsplash in Benicàssim and the Arenal Sound event in Burriana are the most well-known events of the summer.

Meanwhile, annual sporting events continue to delight visitors from across the globe, including the Volvo Ocean Race, the MotoGP Grand Prix at the Circuit of Valencia or Valencia Open 500.

Visit http://en.comunitatvalenciana.com for more information.

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Notes to editors:

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